Catalonia is a stunning destination with a diverse landscape — from the peaks of the Pyrenees to the rugged coastline and the wetlands of the Ebro Delta. The region is home to medieval villages and impressive Roman and Greek ruins, as well as iconic architecture, vibrant traditions, and beautiful beaches along the Costa Brava. Catalonia’s gastronomy is another highlight not to be missed. If you’re planning a trip, this guide will inspire you with the best things to see and do across the region. If you are thinking of making a visit and would like to find the best things to do in Catalonia, this guide will inspire you.

Explore Barcelona: Art, Architecture and Nightlife

Catalonia’s capital, Barcelona, attracts thousands of visitors every year thanks to its extraordinary art, architecture, and Mediterranean spirit. Modernist architect Antoni Gaudí left an indelible mark on the city’s skyline, creating a unique architectural style that blends imagination, symbolism, and organic forms. His masterpieces, such as Casa Batlló, Casa Vicens, and the iconic Sagrada Família, continue to draw admirers from all over the world.

If you’re passionate about art and culture, Barcelona’s museums are a must. The National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) houses one of Europe’s most important collections of Romanesque frescoes, as well as remarkable works of Catalan modernism. You can also visit the Picasso Museum, dedicated to the artist’s early years, or the Fundació Joan Miró, which showcases the vibrant and poetic universe of the Catalan painter.

When the sun sets, the city transforms into a lively hub of nightlife. Trendy neighbourhoods like El Born, Gràcia and Poblenou are filled with terraces, tapas bars, cocktail lounges and music venues that capture the city’s creative energy. From stylish rooftop bars with sea views to intimate jazz clubs and vibrant nightclubs, Barcelona’s nightlife offers something for every taste — cosmopolitan, diverse and full of rhythm.

Discover the Catalan Coast: Beaches and Sea Adventures

No trip to Catalonia is complete without exploring its stunning coastline. Stretching from the rugged coves of the Costa Brava to the golden sands of the Costa Daurada, the Catalan coast is a paradise for beach lovers and sea adventurers alike. This Mediterranean shoreline is famous for its long, sun-drenched beaches where gentle waves lap against the shore and for its crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and water sports.

The beaches along the coast are family-friendly, with calm, shallow waters and easy access, as well as excellent facilities that make every visit comfortable and convenient. The Costa Brava is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves with turquoise waters, and a wealth of outdoor activities such as snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding. Further south, the Costa Daurada offers wide, sandy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for families and lovers of sailing, windsurfing and other water sports.

Throughout the summer, Catalonia’s coastal towns come alive with maritime festivals, fireworks displays and lively open-air concerts that capture the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean.

The Pyrenees and Inland Catalonia: Outdoor Escapes

Catalonia offers countless outdoor escapes that showcase the region’s wilder and more authentic side. The Catalan Pyrenees are a must for nature lovers — a land of majestic peaks, glacial lakes and valleys dotted with charming stone villages. Each village preserves unique customs and traditions, and many come alive throughout the year with colourful local festivals celebrating fire, music and mountain life. The Pyrenees are perfect for hiking and mountain biking in summer, skiing in winter, and enjoying a wide range of outdoor adventures all year round.

Further south, inland Catalonia reveals a different but equally captivating landscape: rolling hills, fertile plains, vineyards and medieval towns where time seems to stand still. This rural heart of Catalonia — stretching across the regions of Lleida, La Segarra, and El Bages — offers visitors the chance to explore Romanesque monasteries, ancient castles and peaceful country trails. It’s also an excellent destination for agritourism, cycling routes, and slow travel experiences that connect you with local life and traditions.

For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Catalonia’s national parks and UNESCO biosphere reserves provide endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through Montseny Natural Park, rafting on the Noguera Pallaresa River, or unwinding at a wellness retreat surrounded by vineyards, inland Catalonia invites you to slow down and embrace its quiet beauty.

Cultural Heritage and Local Traditions

Catalonia is a land deeply rooted in history, where traditions are still very much alive and part of everyday life. Throughout the year, the region celebrates countless festivals that reflect its strong sense of identity and community spirit. Each event has its own customs — from lively parades and human towers to ancient fire rituals — offering visitors a vivid glimpse into Catalonia’s living heritage.

Beyond its festive calendar, Catalonia invites you to travel back in time through its beautifully preserved medieval towns such as Pals, Besalú and Peratallada. Strolling through their cobbled streets, you’ll discover Romanesque churches, arched bridges and stone towers that tell stories dating back to the Middle Ages. The 11th-century bridge of Besalú is one of the most emblematic landmarks of this heritage.

Among Catalonia’s most distinctive traditions are the castells — breathtaking human towers built during festivals — and UNESCO-listed celebrations such as La Patum of Berga, a spectacular explosion of fire, music and folklore that captures the region’s creative and communal soul.

H2. Flavours of Catalonia: A Culinary Journey

No visit to Catalonia would be complete without indulging in its rich and varied gastronomy. The region’s cuisine reflects its Mediterranean roots, combining mountain flavours with the bounty of the sea. Seasonal and local products play a starring role, turning even the simplest dishes into something unforgettable.

Be sure to taste calçots in winter — tender spring onions grilled over an open flame and served with romesco sauce — as well as hearty mountain recipes like olla aranesa and trinxat. Classic accompaniments such as allioli and seafood paella highlight Catalonia’s culinary diversity. From lively calçotades and tapas bars to creative Michelin-starred restaurants, every meal is a celebration of flavour and conviviality.

Food festivals across the region offer the perfect opportunity to experience authentic Catalan dishes and local wines. And for wine lovers, the vineyards of Penedès and Priorat are unmissable: follow their wine and cava routes to taste some of Spain’s most renowned sparkling and red wines amid breathtaking landscapes.

Events and Festivals You Shouldn’t Miss

Catalonia is alive with festivals all year round — each one reflecting its deep-rooted traditions, creativity and community spirit. From ancient rituals to cutting-edge music events, there’s always something to celebrate.

Some of the most iconic include La Mercè, Barcelona’s grand festival honouring the city’s patron saint, and the castells, or human towers, that symbolize teamwork and balance. In April, the streets of every town and village fill with books and roses during Sant Jordi, a day devoted to love and literature. Coastal towns like Calella de Palafrugell host the Cantada d’Havaneres, a charming summer night of traditional sea shanties sung by the water.

For music lovers, international events such as Primavera Sound and Sónar turn Barcelona into a global stage for the latest trends in pop, electronic and experimental music. Meanwhile, traditional celebrations like Els Tres Tombs, where horses parade through historic streets, offer a glimpse into Catalonia’s rural past.

No matter the season, Catalonia’s festivals are a vibrant expression of its culture — a perfect way to experience the warmth, creativity, and passion of its people.

Practical Tips for Your Catalonia Trip

Catalonia is a fantastic destination to visit at any time of year, but the best seasons to explore are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Spring is perfect for hiking, cycling and discovering Catalonia’s natural parks, while autumn offers warm sea temperatures, colourful landscapes and a more relaxed atmosphere in the cities and along the coast.

If you don’t mind the hustle and bustle, summer (June to August) brings long, sunny days and lively energy. It’s the best time to enjoy the beaches of the Costa Brava and Costa Daurada, head into the mountains, or join one of the many cultural and music festivals that fill the calendar. Winter, on the other hand, is quieter and perfect for skiing in the Pyrenees or exploring Catalonia’s cultural heritage at a slower pace.

Whenever you choose to visit, Catalonia promises a rich mix of culture, nature and unforgettable Mediterranean charm.

The post Things to Do in Catalonia: The Ultimate Guide to Culture, Nature and Events first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

It feels less like an arrival and more like a homecoming to the essence of Andalusia, a land where Moorish arches and jasmine-scented courtyards meet an easy, cosmopolitan elegance.

_{Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club}

Wellness takes centre stage here with the arrival of Champneys, making its first international debut. The heritage British spa brand has reimagined its ritual of rest for the Mediterranean, offering treatments infused with coastal botanicals and sun-warmed sea breezes. It is a place to recalibrate, whether through a hammam-inspired scrub or a languid afternoon by the pool, skin kissed by salt and light.

Amu Beach Club, the glamorous younger sibling to the Monaco original, is destined to become the resort’s heartbeat. Picture an infinity pool melting into the horizon, ocean-to-table dining served beneath woven parasols, and sunsets the colour of sangria. For those in the know, it is already being whispered about as Marbella’s next great address for golden-hour gatherings.

_{Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club}

Architecture draws deeply from the region’s Moorish past with intricate tilework, shaded arcades and guest suites spilling onto generous terraces. Inside, the atmosphere is breezy and sunlit. Outside, a cluster of restaurants and bars channel the Andalusian art of living outdoors. Expect long, wine-soaked lunches, orange-laced caipirinhas in hand and the slow drift of an afternoon that refuses to end.

Beyond the beach and pool, the resort opens a door to the region’s living traditions. Guests can cast a fishing line at dawn with local sailors, press liquid gold from ripe Andalusian olives or learn the craft of winemaking from those who have done it for generations.

Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club is not just a place to stay. It is a mood, a rhythm, a way of inhabiting the Mediterranean that blends heritage with high style.

by Adina Ilie

Prices start from £390 in the high season, and £220 in the low season

The post Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club Brings Riviera Energy to Andalusia first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Our trip begins and ends at The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife Abama, a striking terracotta-hued resort perched on a dramatic cliffside. This luxurious oasis exudes sophistication, with its marble-clad interiors bathed in sunlight streaming through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.

Located just 30 minutes from Tenerife-South Airport, the hotel is surrounded by lush, manicured gardens and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean. At the heart of the property lies the Citadel, the resort’s hub, designed as a Moorish-inspired village.

_Beach

_{Club Lounge}

Descending from the Citadel, we arrive at The Retreat, an enclave within the resort and our home throughout our stay here. The Retreat includes 144 recently redesigned rooms and suites split across four separate levels, with each Retreat level boasting its own expansive lagoon-style swimming pool, fringed by tropical foliage and serviced by attentive staff offering complimentary poolside drinks and snacks.

For those seeking the ultimate in privacy, select a villa with its own private pool to create an intimate sanctuary.

_{Retreat Pool}

Our spacious suite is decorated in a soothing neutral palette with earthy-toned accents and comfy furnishings utilising organic fabrics, and it opens out onto a veranda furnished with sun loungers with Atlantic views, from where we savour unforgettable sunsets each evening.

The suite’s king-sized bed ensures restful nights, while our opulent marble bathroom, complete with a walk-in shower, a sunken bathtub, double vanity unit adorned with Diptyque amenities, adds an extra layer of indulgence.

_{Villa Club – 1 Bedroom Suite, Ocean View}

_{The Beach Club}

Each morning we head to breakfast at The Club. This cliffside dining spot is adjacent to the Retreat’s infinity pool accompanied by stunning ocean vistas across to the neighbouring island of La Gomera. Breakfast is a feast of fresh fruits, artisan cheeses, charcuterie and pastries, with made-to-order eggs from the à la carte menu.

Complimentary light lunches, snacks and drinks are also served at The Club throughout the day for Retreat guests, perfect for leisurely afternoons by the pool. We love exploring the expansive grounds on foot, while many guests hire their own gold buggy. Alternatively, just call for a shuttle-ride to any point within the resort.

The resort offers direct access to its own secluded beach, serviced by attentive staff and adorned with squishy sun loungers and oversized umbrellas offering plenty of shade. For those wishing to spend all day by the sea, there’s the Beach Club restaurant serving up fresh fish, salads and light bites. For those less inclined to take the steep winding pathway down to the beach, there’s a charming “train” service to transport guests throughout the day. 

_{El Mirador}

Families are well catered for, with numerous kids-only pools across the main hotel complex, while the award-winning Ritz-Kids Club offers activities for children aged 4-12. For a dose of wellness, we head to the Spa Abama with its thoughtfully curated menu of treatments featuring ESPA products and indigenous oils. The Roman-inspired thermal circuit is the ideal way to unwind after a day in the sun. Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts will love the resort’s pristine 18-hole championship course.

_{Club Lounge}

The property boasts an extensive choice of nine distinct restaurants, headlined by the two Michelin-starred M.B – helmed by chef Erlantz Gorostiza – where every dish is a symphony of flavours from Catalan. For a laid-back vibe, Verde Mar offers vibrant vegetable-forward dishes, enhanced with herbs from the resort’s vertical gardens.

Diners seeking fresh seafood should pre-book at El Mirador, where oceanfront tables and cozy heaters set the scene for an unforgettable night – the salt-crusted sea bass is a stand-out. At Verona, the resort’s trattoria, the menu features wholesome comfort food, from creamy aubergine parmigiana to decadent cheese-laden pizzas and scrumptious gelato.

From sumptuous accommodation and world-class dining to family-friendly amenities and a private beach club, The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama delivers the essence of a luxurious winter escape. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tenerife’s natural beauty, this resort is a destination to return to time and time again.

by Amanda Bernstein

The new rooms and suites are now available to book. Book via http://ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/tfsrz-the-ritz-carlton-abama

_{Prices start at €900 + taxes per night (approx. £750), including breakfast}

The post Glass checks in at The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{Swimming Pool at Fairmont La Hacienda}

The moment I land, something shifts. And I don’t just mean the unusual experience of crossing the border into Spain on foot, but also a noticeable change in my demeanour in the presence of nature. You see, the thing about Gibraltar Airport is that the eponymous Rock greets you as you land. Legend has it that it’s one of Achilles’ heels. I do love a good Greek myth reference.

The drive to Fairmont La Hacienda is smooth. Hills roll out beside us, the sea winks in the distance, and already I feel as though I’m somewhere far from my usual thoughts.

Upon arrival, Fairmont delivers immediately. There’s something about certain hotel chains that gives you an instant sense of belonging. It feels like a home away from home. This is especially true of Fairmont, which even has a signature scent designed specifically for its properties. And we all know that scent is deeply connected to memory.

As I enter my room and draw back the curtains, I’m taken aback by the view. The seafront, the lighthouse, the hills—all of it transports me to a place I once regarded as my healing sanctuary in Spain. I feel a subtle but undeniable pull, a sense that the energy of this place will offer something similar. After all, energy rarely lies. I sit on the balcony and exhale. At last, I’ve fully arrived.

_{Fairmont La Hacienda Hotel}

The afternoon unfolds peacefully. What I love about the resort’s atmosphere is how it allows you to ease in at your own pace. Lunch at Umbra is light and served family style, with a cheeky glass of cava to start. That’s all you really need, along with a bit of poolside sunshine. It’s only mid-May, but what better way to open the season?

The resort’s grounds are expansive, green and open. You can hear birds, the distant sound of waves, and little else. The view stretches out towards the hills, and as the sun sets, everything slows. No one checks their phone.

Dinner at Dalmar is calm and confident. The menu focuses on local produce—vegetables that taste of real sunshine and seafood prepared with care. There are no unnecessary garnishes or over-explanations. Just food that knows where it comes from. It is the kind of tasting menu I could return to again and again. The simplicity of presentation is where two-star Michelin Chef Benito Gómez truly shines. The sardines, in particular, have made a lasting impression.

_{Dalmar Restaurant at Fairmont La Hacienda Hotel}

The next morning is quiet and breath-focused. A well-needed yoga session awaits beside the hotel’s spa. The view is grounding rather than overwhelming, and my body and breath begin to move in time with the ocean tides. It has been a while since I’ve felt this connected to my surroundings. The Fairmont experience is all about surrendering. Everything here feels safe, as long as you lean in and trust.

The afternoon stretches into a long lounge by the pool, followed by a much-anticipated spa treatment. I’ve been craving it. The space is simple, the therapists warm. There is no performance, only genuine care.

Back at Umbra for lunch, everything feels lighter. We chat more easily now. The meal meanders with fresh bread and small plates, passed around without fuss. Then it’s time for the boat.

My transfer is unconventional. I hop into a local Mini Moke and we drive through Sotogrande, often called the Palm Springs of Spain, on our way to the yacht at the pier.

The sea is still. We drift for hours, sharing snacks and stories. There are no grand moments, just a quiet calm you don’t realise you’ve been missing until you’re immersed in it. The sun begins to set, and no one hurries to leave.

Dinner at El Faro de la Hacienda is another highlight. The pace is gentle. Dishes arrive at just the right moment. Local wine flows, and a quiet contentment fills the table. It doesn’t feel like the last night, only another good one.

_{Yoga at Fairmont La Hacienda Hotel}

Sunday arrives softly. I wake without an alarm and wander alone to the beachfront for one final look. I reflect on the internal changes I’ve experienced, brought about by an exceptional level of external care. Friends, wine, sunshine, and the thoughtful wellness provided by Fairmont all played their part. I now believe a little more in the future.

There’s a tender feeling of being open to serendipity when you least expect it. A hope that what is meant for you will find you. And perhaps, just perhaps, a reason to romanticise your life a bit more. Who knows when your next beautiful moment might come? It could be right now.

I look out to sea, and it gazes back. I had forgotten how cleansing an empty beach can be. It is priceless. I will never take it for granted again.

Fairmont La Hacienda gave me more than a break. It gave me space—not just to rest, but to feel clearer and lighter. The food, the pace, and the care in every detail came together to create something truly rare. I arrived full of noise. I leave with nothing but peace.

by Adina Ilie

_{Fairmont La Hacienda is located on Calle De Faro De Punta Mala 2, 11310 SAN ROQUE, Spain. Prices start from £380. Book via https://www.fairmont.com/en/hotels/san-roque/fairmont-la-hacienda-costa-del-sol.html} 

The post Glass discovers a sense of stillness at Fairmont La Hacienda first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Offering panoramic views of the city due to its standalone location, you are promised sights that you can’t find anywhere else. 

_{W Barcelona exterior}

_{Salt seating area}

Although its exterior was designed to embrace the calm of the coast, it’s what’s inside that elevates the classic Spanish city experience, but with a luxury twist. With a staggering 473 rooms, six dining options, a spa with extensive amenities, a tattoo parlour and even a recording studio, the party begins and ends here.

But if, like me, you decide to stay in one of their Fabulous Sky Rooms, you may contemplate not even leaving the suite. With a king-size bed facing the floor-to-ceiling windows that offer an extensive view of the famed beach, city and Montserrat, it’s difficult to argue otherwise. And with it being the first thing you wake up to in the morning, going to breakfast seems like a chore, albeit one I was very happy to do. 

_{WOW Suite – guest room}

After tucking into Catalonian specialties, you get the difficult decision whether to head for the beach or the pool. Being one of the rare hotels that can offer both options, you can take in the sun all day long with a house cocktail in hand, eat some nibbles on the Wet Deck and quite literally watch Barcelona come to life. 

by Imogen Clark

_{Starting rate for W Barcelona is 300€ + VAT}

_{w-barcelona.com}

The post Glass reaches new heights at W Barcelona first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Housed in the historic Circle of Trade building and opened in 1924, this adult-only hotel is perfectly placed to explore, not only the bustling Gran Via, but almost every sight, shop and highlight the city has to offer. 

_{Exterior of Circulo Gran Via}

The hotel’s emphasis is on luxury and a sense of peace away from its frenetic central location. The pinnacle of a stay here is indulging in the grandness of one of the hotel’s circular suites that occupy the domed corner of the building.

Not only do these offer comfort, but also spacious terraces and enviable views across the Gran Via. The rooms are elegantly appointed with a hint of refined modernity, while neutral colours accentuate the feeling of serenity. 

_{Círculo Mercantil Restaurant}

A super breakfast is called for when attacking a day and a night in Madrid, especially if the intention is to explore on foot – undoubtedly the best way to see any city. This is taken in an elegant room on the hotel’s first floor and offers not only a buffet but all the international favourites one would expect.

It would be remiss of any visitor to Madrid not to sample a Bon Bon, the joyous combination of strong, rich espresso coffee with a condensed milk top, a staple of the city’s morning ritual. 

_{Junior Suite Room}

Once recharged, it’s onto the Prado and Reina Sofia, two of Europe’s most important galleries, housing as they do world famous artists. There are also a host of amazing places to eat and drink in Madrid. As Hemingway once said, “Nobody goes to bed in Madrid until they have killed the night.” Once that night has been put to bed, there is no better way to rest one’s head than on a fluffy pillow at the Círculo Gran Via. 

by Katie Felstead

_{Rates start from £375 per night for a Deluxe Room excluding breakfast. Marriott Bonvoy members enjoy preferential rates and for Gold and Platinum members, breakfast is included.} 

_{marriott.com/en-us/hotels/madkv-circulo-gran-via-autograph-collection/overview/}

The post Glass finds calm in the heart of Madrid at Círculo Gran Via first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

But this is Ibiza, an island at the centre of a tug of war between luxury and hedonism since time immemorial. At BLESS it’s the luxury side that wins out. Still, Balearic rhythms follow you everywhere you go and specialist cocktails rotate daily, while international footballers roast poolside before a night at Hï or Circoloco. 

_{Llum Pool Club}

I’d compare my two nights to a pre-drinks so good you end up cancelling the night out itself, even though you’ve already shelled out for tickets, booked a baby sitter and spent hours getting dolled up. Wanting the full experience, I had mentally committed to the idea of a night out in Ibiza.

A childhood friend was DJing the night I arrived, just 30 minutes away from BLESS (Ibiza now has Uber – game changer), but, as the night ran on, I just couldn’t pull myself away from my temporary home. Maybe it was the 15 course tasting menu at in house restaurant, Etxeko (“Home Made” in Basque, the region that inspires the dishes).

_{Magness Soulful Spa}

There’s not enough page space to cover every course, but memorable highlights include: black pudding fritter with yuzu and camomile; oxtail cannolloni with acorn-fed Iberian ham and boletus soup; and grilled hake, coconut, red curry and razor clams. A Michelin Star well earned, helmed by Martín Berasategui – recipient of 12 stars and counting, which is a frankly greedy amount.

_{Dining at BLESS}

_{Dining at BLESS}

The roof terrace restaurant offers a more casual alternative, but with no real drop in quality. The octopus tacos are a delight, wonderfully zesty and great with a caná, while the blue fin tuna is otherworldly. I’ve heard blue chip fish be referred to as ‘meaty’ before, but this was downright decadent on a level that only slow cooked pork belly can match – similar in texture and heft. A serious treat.

The rooftop infinity pool is suitably lux, but the main event can be found on the ground floor, with the sprawling, multi-level Llum Pool Club, punctuated with waterlilies and balinese beds. The beach is just 30 seconds away, and for those wanting a bit of seaside therapy, it can be traversed as part of a daily mindfulness walk, lead by hotel clinicians.

As if anymore evidence were needed that BLESS has all bases covered, they also employ a domesticated falcon to patrol skies above the pool area, keeping the Ibizan seagulls (big enough to scoop up a toddler/one of the smaller instagram models leafing through their salad), at a nice, safe distance.

_{Infinity Lounge}

The team at BLESS believe a stay with them should be a deeply sensual experience, typified by carefully curated scents that stay with guests long after they depart. The Magness Soul Ful Spa is distinctly Mediterranean; the gym, more “spicy”, while the corridors carry notes of moss and wood.

On Wednesdays an opera singer takes up residence in the spa, taking advantage of the world class acoustics, while private (and supposedly soundproofed) massage rooms, each named after and aesthetically inspired by summer flowers, offer treatments powered by ESPA Cosmetics.

Next door is what I can only describe as a Moorish pleasure centre, home to half a dozen waterbeds, perfect for that floaty post-massage slump. The spa prioritises sustainability, and will soon feature an on sight boutique with rentable swimwear. We were reliably informed that for families, the best time to visit is April/May, while June/July/August tends to be relatively kid-free.

by Charlie Holder

_{Bless Hotel Ibiza offers rooms from £374 per night based on two adults sharing. British Airways Holidays (www.britishairways.com ) offers three nights at BLESS Hotel Ibiza from £349 per person, inclusive of flights and checked baggage departing from London Heathrow on 27 September on a room-only basis, based on two people travelling.}

The post Too blessed to stress at BLESS Hotel Ibiza first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

The target, to become carbon-neutral by 2030, is reflected in four green routes, the first of which showcases the nine-km space of Turia Gardens and its availability for walking, sports, picnicking and appreciation of nature.

_{Central Park in Valencia}

The second route meanders through the city centre, drawing attention to revitalised spaces – like the now fully pedestrianised Plaza de la Reina – that have been recovered for public use, while the third route employs public transport or bicycle to take in the city’s natural larders: fish from the Mediterranean; fruit and vegetables from orchards; and rice from the paddy fields that surround L’Albufera Natural Park to the south of the city (where paella, in its modern form, was first developed).

_{Bicycle power in Valencia}

_{Cycling in the European Green Capital 2024}

_{Orchards are also part of the city’s natural larder}

2024 will bring a host of events, large and small, that celebrate Valencia’s Green Capital status; there is also the forthcoming new Central Park, which will add 230,000 m² of green spaces to the city centre. There can no longer be any mistaking Valencia’s appeal for visitors to Spain looking for an uncrowded destination (move over, Barcelona). 

by Sean Sheehan

For more information, see Visit Valencia

The post Valencia becomes the Mediterranean’s Green Capital 2024 first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

It’s so Sylvanian Families that had there been a cat in a dress at front desk I wouldn’t have batted an eyelid. Against the backdrop of an ancient city that’s withstood countless bloody conquerers, the illusion of daintiness that accompanies the fairytale nature of Palacio Solecio, is beguiling. 

_{Balausta Restaurant}

Setting off on a guided tour of the city, it quickly becomes apparent that modern Malaga is a city of idols, of which there are two above all others: Picasso, and Jesus, (in that order). It’s dense and refreshingly walkable; buildings are squeezed together separated by cobbled semi-streets, so naturally, these idols often intermingle.

See Inglesia de Santiago, which is less a pean to Christ than the place where, in 1881, Pablo Picasso was christened. Which isn’t to blaspheme – this is a deeply religious city after all.

It’s just the order of things here. At a time when moral reappraisals of the man follow him and his art like the spikiest of asterisks, Malaguenans are steadfast and unrepentant. “He’s not good, and he’s not bad, he’s just a genius. Living around him was like living with a god”, our guide tells us. 

_Bedroom

He has a zealous certainty when speaking of Picasso, and as we’re led from a 2000 year old Greek amphitheatre, beneath an ancient castle (a mere 1000 years old), towards the great man’s eponymous museum, it feels very much as if we’re living in Malaga’s ‘Picasso Period’.

There were the Fenicians, the Moores, latterly the Christians, but today, death be damned, Picasso rules over the city. 

_Bathroom

As with much of Spain, the religious tugs of war that dictated its architects has given Malaga a thrilling melange of moorish/classical European aesthetics. It makes the city’s past so physically traceable. The 10th century Alcazabar of Malaga is a particular gem – indescribably beautiful and rich with lore and romance. Patterned jalousie windows peer over secret gardens with outdoor tubs.

Narrow passages open up onto sprawling vistas where colourful birds sit, and rest. “If you look to the east, you can see the ocean. To the west: the mountains. They shield us, and create the micro-climate that all of Spain envies – 320 days of sun a year.”

There’s a fervour to our guides tenor that betrays both pride, and pity, in the implication that rest of Spain suffers terminal sun deprivation. 

_{Palacio Solecio}

It’s a testament to Malaga’s aforementioned density, that gallery visits, palace walks and a few hours on the beach are easily achievable in a single day. After a days exploration, Palacio Solecio provides cool sanctuary.

_{Malaga Cathedral view from the balcony at Palacio Solecio}

Cold stone mosaics cover the courtyard floor, squared off by shuttered hotel room windows, designed with late night gossip in mind. Michelin-starred chef José Carlos García curates seasonal menus, while the famed El Pimpi taverna (owned by Antonio Banderas, the city’s second son after Picasso) is minutes away by foot. 

by Charlie Holder

Palacio Solecio luxury boutique hotel is located in central Malaga, and was awarded Best Urban Hotel 2022 by Conde Nast Traveler. For bookings, go to: https://palaciosolecio.com/en/.

The Picasso Museum Malaga is currently marking 50 years since the painters death, and features one of the world’s largest Picasso collections, predominantly donated by his daughter in law. For tickets, go to: https://museopicassomalaga.org/en.

For tickets to The Alcazaba of Malaga, go to: https://www.alcazabamalaga.com/. Private tours are available from €120 per group. 

The post Glass takes in a weekend of sun, palaces, and Picasso in Málaga first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Led by Dr Mark Hyman, the RoseBar was the latest addition to the Six Senses resort earlier this year, fusing science and spirituality together to provide visitors an incredible wellness experience. 

Infrared Sauna

RoseBar Reception

Already bolstering an impressive reputation, the clinic welcomes Pearson to provide her knowledge of weight loss, metabolic health and healthy ageing. 

Known for her unique ‘Intelligent Weight Loss Method,’ the nutritionist will surely provide an extensive array of knowledge while continuing to treat her rolodex of loyal clients from her London branch. 

by Ben Sanderson 

The post RoseBar at the Six Senses Ibiza welcomes Kim Pearson to their team of specialists first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Now, Purple Summer once again delights with a new addition to its portfolio. This month, the company will launch Villa Can Totxa in Mallorca. Nestled amidst rolling hills between the cobbled Pollença old town and Port de Pollença marina, the new villa is a traditional finca-style property that sleeps up to eight in four stylish en-suite bedrooms, each with their own unique view of the surrounding countryside.

But that’s not all. It also boasts a 16m swimming pool, tennis court, a fully-equipped playroom for little ones and a selection of indoor and outdoor dining spaces.

If it is unparalleled luxury you seek, guests of Villa Can Totxa also have the option to book their own private chef. Indeed, guests will have full access to a dedicated team of staff, as well as daily housekeeping and a concierge service to cater to their every whim.

by Joshua Hendren

The post Purple Summer announces a new property in Mallorca – introducing Villa Can Totxa first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

A boutique hotel set in within the hills of northern Ibiza, Pikes is notorious for its rich heritage, high octane glamour and fun aplenty, after all, it was Freddie Mercury’s favourite hotel (hence the on-site club called ‘Freddies’).

Established in the ’70s, it’s called to the creative set from Grace Jones to Tony Curtis, and George Michael (who filmed the video for Club Tropicana in the hotel pool), surrounded by Mediterranean gardens, complete with a sunset terrace that’s ideal for taking in the sunrise and for sunset drinks, looking out over the Mediterranean countryside.

And for the 2023, the hotel welcomes major interior and exterior refurbishments, right in time to kick off the new season. As expected, it nods to the rock ‘n’ roll scene with an aesthetic that combines luxury with the contemporary, incorporating little eccentricities in true Pikes’ style.

“Pikes is timeless and must always retain its beautifully core authentic ethos and essence. By sensitively tweaking we’ve kept its meaning and legacy on a rapidly changing island whilst allowing the heart of Pikes to live on unchanged.” Andy McKay, CEO Ibiza Rocks Group

Here, eight of the hotel’s original bedrooms, bathrooms and external spaces have received modern makeovers, adding mid-century modern fittings and furnishings from a range of both emerging and established brands, along with artisans local to the White Isle.

“Pikes is a unique place. During the renovation, it was vital to ensure that the quirky elements of the interiors were retained to preserve the identity of the hotel.  Within the redesign we have created eclectic comfortable rooms with a unique feel, coupled with micro-attention to functionality, so that guests will literally never want to leave.”  Lucinda Swayne, Interior Designer

The bathrooms have been subject to a remodel and refurbishment with gold metallic sinks, mid-century modern brass taps and fittings, metro wall tiling finished with matchy matchy wallpaper and retro touches in the form of bespoke fringed lampshades by British company, Divine Savages (this has also been continued into Pikes’ restaurant, Pamelas).

Each room showcases its own print from art deco martini glasses to exotic animals and tropical fruits to bring some more playfulness into the space and look inside the wardrobe for kimonos by Silken Flavours, that are perfect for morning wafting with Nordic Knot rugs underfoot.

Talking of which, floors don local stone in a golden earthy tone for authenticity, and the original finca style with Sabina wooden ceiling beams have been retained, with neutral walls to ensure maximum light and the feeling of space. Room exteriors have been redesigned with privacy in mind, with Ibizan stone to match the interiors and seductive lighting. A selection of the Garden Suites also features giant 2–4-person exterior wooden clad baths, topped off with Silken Favours printed deckchairs for guests soak up the sun in their very own private gardens.

by Felicity Carter

Pikes Room rates start from €199 per room in low season. Garden Suite rates start from €312 per room in low season.

Images courtesy of Sofia Gomez Fonzo.

The post Legendary rock ‘n’ roll hotel, Pikes Ibiza undergoes a refurbishment for the 2023 season first appeared on The Glass Magazine.